Description
Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes are a quick and flavorful side dish featuring crispy air-fried russet potatoes smothered in a creamy blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, seasoned with a festive mix of taco spices. Topped with classic garnishes like sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes, this dish is perfect for parties, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a cheesy, spicy potato treat.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 pound russet potatoes, washed, dried, and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
Cheese Sauce
- ¾ cup (178.5 g) heavy whipping cream
- 1 ½ cups (169.5 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (113 g) pepper jack cheese, shredded
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon chili powder
Toppings
- Sour cream (to taste)
- Green onion, chopped (to taste)
- Sliced jalapeños (to taste)
- Diced tomatoes (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: In a medium bowl, combine the diced potatoes with vegetable oil, taco seasoning, and seasoned salt. Toss thoroughly until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Preheat and Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer inside the basket. Depending on your air fryer size, cook in batches if necessary.
- Air Fry the Potatoes: Air fry the potatoes at 375°F for 10 minutes. After this initial cook time, shake the basket to redistribute the potatoes for even cooking. Continue air frying for an additional 5 minutes or until the potatoes are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: While the potatoes are cooking, heat the heavy whipping cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat until bubbles begin to form around the edges. Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in sharp cheddar, pepper jack cheese, kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and chili powder. Stir continuously until all cheeses have melted into a smooth, creamy sauce. Cover the saucepan to keep the cheese sauce warm.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the crispy air-fried potatoes to a serving platter or plate. Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, and diced tomatoes to taste. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, make sure the potato cubes are dried thoroughly before seasoning and cooking.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning according to your spice preference.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter cheese sauce, though it may be less rich.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, the potatoes can be baked in a conventional oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, turning midway.
- Leftover cheesy potatoes can be reheated in the air fryer to restore crispness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
